Chris Owens joined the Department of Political Science as a tenure-track member fall 2005 from Texas A&M University. Chris specializes in American politics. His research interests include political behavior, political parties and race and politics. His dissertation examines how electoral reforms have influenced voters and parties. He has published articles in the Journal of Politics, Social Science Quarterly and Spectrum: The Journal of State Government. Chris has also published book chapters on electoral reforms and public attitudes on policies important to minority citizens.  He is Director of the MA Program

Academic History

• Ph.D.   Texas A&M University, 2006 (Political Science)
  Major Field: American Politics
  Minor Field: Public Administration/Public Policy
• M.A.   Southern Illinois University, 2001 (Political Science)
• B.A.    Southern Illinois University, 1999 (Political Science) Magna Cum Laude

Research Interests                                            

• Political Participation                                       
• Race and Politics                                               
• Public Opinion                                                  
• Representation                                                  
• Parties and Interest Groups

Teaching Interests

• American Politics
• Race and Politics
• Public Policy/Public Administration
• Research Methods